TennoCon 2025 Embodied the Idea of “The More, The Merrier,” and I Wish More Devs Followed Suit

The internet can sometimes feel isolating despite fostering unique connections and communities that wouldn’t have formed otherwise. However, it also provides a platform for unsolicited disturbances to disrupt the tranquility. For certain individuals, expressing their passion for video games like Warframe, Soulframe, or any other, in person is uncommon. That personal connection, though innocent and genuine, is what makes events such as TennoCon 2025 resonate so strongly with fans of these games, specifically those from Digital Extremes.

For those who are familiar, TennoCon is an annual event honoring the creations of Digital Extremes, particularly games such as Warframe and Soulframe. This year marked its 10th anniversary since its inception in 2016 (given its age, it’s certainly past infancy). The event unveiled upcoming content for Warframe and showcased the progress of Soulframe throughout development, along with numerous engaging panels, a concert led by Digital Extremes developers, and more. Essentially, TennoCon was a joyous tribute to everything that embodies being a Tenno, and during the convention, this spirit reigned supreme.

TennoCon Sets a Bar That Others Are Not Trying to Raise

Without a doubt, the spirit of camaraderie was tangible at TennoCon. Laughter echoed around as everyone shared the same jokes, their reactions felt genuine and spontaneous (a rarity on the internet, in my opinion), they marveled at the amazing art and cosplay that filled the space, and made everyone feel included. It’s not just the content for Warframe and Soulframe that draws people from all corners of the globe to TennoCon; it’s also the community. The energy was electric at the TennoConcert, fans went crazy for the actors of Warframe, and lines stretched as far as the eye could see for merchandise. TennoCon truly raised the bar for gaming conventions.

It’s fascinating that there seems to be a lack of significant competition in the video game industry, especially at events like TennoCon. Usually, competition drives improvement, but TennoCon has consistently set its own high standards—not for rivalry, but for its community. In fact, this year, the developers even hosted a concert! I find it hard to believe that more developers worldwide haven’t followed suit because it’s evidently successful.

There’s a Clear Need for Physical Conventions in the Gaming Industry

their community.

Indeed, it’s correct that gatherings such as BlizzCon, EVE FanFest, QuakeCon, and Final Fantasy XIV FanFest are indeed held. However, it’s essential to remember that these represent only a small number of gaming communities among many hundreds, if not thousands, spread across the globe, each with its unique intellectual properties and studios.

Instead of focusing solely on live-service games, imagine if we could organize conventions centered around our favorite video game series or development studios. Picture yourself in a room where they reveal new updates to the world, meeting them at exhibitions for autographs and conversations, and experiencing their humanity alongside yours. Such events like RockstarCon, UbiCon, EACon, EpicCon, 2KCon, BorderCon, BioCon, PSCon, XCon (or any name that suits the content) could bring together actors, developers, and fans of games like Red Dead, GTA 6, and past works to celebrate their fandom. These events wouldn’t just focus on major news and announcements, although those are always appreciated. Companies like Digital Extremes have already proven that hosting such gatherings is possible, so many other studios could likely do the same. The power of video games lies in their ability to bring people together from around the world, as shown by events like TennoCon.

During the global lockdown due to the pandemic, numerous businesses transitioned to organizing digital gatherings focused on their games, for sharing updates and announcements. This approach has proven effective for countless companies that it seems difficult to comprehend why more traditional in-person conferences haven’t adopted a similar strategy.

TennoCon Opened Its Doors to Its Community, and Its Community Responded

The common advice is to ‘go where the people are’ when it comes to markets and such business matters, which may not be of much interest or relevance to an average gamer. However, TennoCon defied this norm by inviting people to come to them instead. Over the past ten years, its success as a gaming convention centered around its community has been exceptional and largely unparalleled. While events like The Game Awards and the Tokyo Game Show are vital for making key connections, TennoCon demonstrated that the most crucial connection is between a studio and its fanbase.

It was an absolute celebration of all it means to be Tenno.

For me, TennoCon 2025 holds cherished memories, and I can only envision the feelings of those who have attended every event or multiple ones. TennoCon 2025 embodies the unifying force of video games and communities, creating a unique universe where being a Tenno was paramount. I am confident that TennoCon will continue to thrive as its power lies in the passionate individuals who support it – though success-related struggles may arise, they’re hard to foresee for such a beloved entity.

Game Rant was provided travel and lodging for TennoCon 2025.

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2025-07-22 17:12